How do I plan an answer to a close reading question in my exam?

The first thing I tell students is when presented with a question, take time to plan. Do not start writing immediately - most of what you will produce won’t be much good. In a lesson, I provide students with a fool proof structure, beginning with an introduction and a clear statement of argument, which is then followed through in the response. I emphasise the important of topic sentences and links to anchor thought, and train students in how to craft the best ones in a short space of time. 
When teaching exam preparation, I get students to focus on a few specific observations they might have. Often the brightest students have so many thoughts they can’t order them properly, and give them space to breath (I know I suffered from this!). When I studied at Cambridge, I was trained in close reading in weekly supervisions and thought techniques on how to quickly get the most out of a short piece of poetry or prose, and I’m looking forward to passing these onto your young person! 

PC
Answered by Peter C. English Literature tutor

3715 Views

See similar English Literature A Level tutors

Related English Literature A Level answers

All answers ▸

What should I focus on specifically when analysing a play or dramatic text?


Discuss the following passage from Act 1 Scene 2, exploring Shakespeare’s use of language and its dramatic effects.


How should I structure a comparative essay?


How can I use context in an essay about King Lear?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning